According to ethicist Matt Beard, in Australian politics near enough should not be good enough — and there is nothing like an integrity commission to show us that we deserve better.
Gladys Berejiklian’s resignation as NSW premier last year caused widespread dismay. In part, the loss felt was for the departure of an Australian politician who seemed to be a capable leader, and at a time when the state was navigating the height of the COVID-19 Delta crisis.
Floral tributes and messages of support were left on the doorstep of Berejiklian’s electorate office in Willoughby as her Wikipedia page was amended to read ‘former politician’ and the 30-something NSW treasurer Dominic Perrotet was chosen to replace her.
Speaking to The Mandarin, ethicist Matt Beard, from the Cranlana Centre for Ethical Leadership, describes the Berejiklian saga as a telling example of how Australians do not expect politicians to be ‘clean-handed people’.
“What’s indicative here is that we are at a point in the way...
Subscribe for unlimited access
A Mandarin Premium subscription gives you access to all articles, webinars, discounted early-bird event invites and more.
INTRO OFFER - 40% OFF
ANNUAL $440$264
Save 40% on premium access for new accounts.
Just $22/month for your first year.
Renews at $440/year until cancelled.
MONTHLY $44
Unlimited access for just $10 per week. Cancel anytime.
Any feedback or news tips? Here’s where to contact the relevant team.